Who really decides in Europe?

The European Parliament is to have the deciding vote on the candidate to replace Jose Manuel Barroso as Commission president at a vote in July.

And Herman Van Rompuy, chairman of the Council of ministers, has put his foot in it by admitting that it is the council that makes the the most vital decisions in Europe, rather than the European Parliament.

According to the BBC, Mr Van Rompuy acknowledges that the European Parliament has an important role but then adds: “The difference between the Parliament and those who really decide is very clear to citizens.” He adds that this is the reason for the traditionally low voter turnout in European elections.

At last it may be possible for voters’ choices to have an effect on what happens in Europe.

About The Author

Debbie has been a journalist for longer than she cares to admit! She has been freelance for the last 15 years and is deputy editor on INDEPENDENCE Daily, specialising in covering the morning press each day.